The NFL world woke up to heartbreaking news when learning about the passing of former NFL star Chris Smith. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus first reported the news on his Twitter. The former NFL defensive played college football at Arkansas before the Jacksonville Jaguars selected him in the 2014 draft’s fifth round. Several NFL players and media personalities started paying tribute to a friend and colleague in Chris. One of the notable A-listers was Dwayne Johnson.
Johnson, along with RedBird Capital Partners, bought the XFL in August 2020. The 50-year-old dedicated an emotional message to the late Chris Smith and his family. Dwayne wrote, “I was so sorry to hear this news. Heartbroken for Chris’ family. Our entire XFL universe sends it love, light, strength & mana to the Smith family. Stay strong. We are here. dj”
The post includes a picture of Smith alongside a message from the XFL team while showing him in the Seattle Sea Dragons uniform. In 2019, Chris suffered another tragedy when his girlfriend, Petara Cordero, died after being struck by a speeding car.
Dwayne Johnson and fans devastated after Chris Smith’s death
Smith had a decorated career, having experiences with a plethora of teams during his lifetime. The 31-year-old played with the Cincinnati Bengals, Las Vegas Raiders, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens. His last appearance in the NFL was for the Houston Texans in 2021 before signing with XFL’s Seattle Sea Dragons in March.
Chris spent a total of eight seasons in the NFL. In those eight seasons, the North Carolina native played in 72 career games. He made two starts and recorded a total of 80 tackles, 26 quarterback hits, and 11 sacks. In the ongoing XFL season, Chris appeared in 5 games so far with the Seattle Sea Dragons.
Rest in Peace to a West Rowan Legend! Chris was a better person than he was player! The impact he had on those around him will be remembered forever!
After starring collegiately at Arkansas, Smith earned a second-team All-SEC selection for the 2013 season. Chris was the team captain and a defensive playmaker, who was also awarded the 2009 Shrine Bowl Defensive MVP.
Smith’s cause of death is still unknown, however, reports say that the 31-year-old was involved in an XFL game just a few hours before passing away. XFL stands for “Xtreme Football League.” The company had initially filed for bankruptcy in April 2020.
A leader on the field, and a friend to all he played with.
Rest in peace Chris Smith. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Az6Bx3tyhf
— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) April 18, 2023
Fortunately, ‘The Rock‘ showed hope for the dying promotions when he led a group of investors to buy out the XFL in August of the same year. Johnson and ex-wife Dany Garcia, partnered with Gerry Cardinale’s RedBird Capital to purchase the company for a reported $15 million.
Smith’s unfortunate news comes as a heavy blow to many, especially Dwayne Johnson. Just days before Chris’ death, the 50-year-old Hollywood star took to Instagram to share the success of the ongoing XFL shows and their “sold out” shows. Needless to say, Johnson wasn’t expecting what was to follow a couple of days later.
What do you make of Chris Smith’s untimely death? Do let us know in the comments down below.
